Description of the Event: Contact: For more information contact ANR Event Services at 517-353-3175 or events@anr.msu.eduLink

New plants are the life-blood of the landscape and gardening economy. Plant research and global exploration influence the number and types of plants available. However, we all know that "new" is not always "best" for our landscapes. With consumers turning their attention to sustainability and green practices, the question arises, "How much maintenance do these plants require?" MSU Extension has developed a portfolio of renowned plant experts to present this annual seminar. Speakers will enrich your knowledge of widely sought-after plant material while remembering the foundational message of "right plant, right place" to create beautiful and sustainble Michigan landscapes.

Creating the Three Dimensional LandscapeAndrew Bunting, Director of Plant Collections, Chicago Botanic Gardens, Glencoe, ILJoin noted horticulturist and garden designer, Dan Benarcik, as he shares an aesthetic design approach to everyday garden spaces that draw inspiration from the places and communities where they will be utilized. Whether in an expansive public landscape, park or small niche in a private garden, plants are the backbone of successful design. Drawing upon his cumulative experiences from Chanticleer and other public gardens, Benarcik is sure to inspire and refresh your creativity and imagination!

Bellvidere: Evolution of a Plant Geek's GardenAndrew Bunting, Director of Plant Collections, Chicago Botanic Gardens, Glencoe, ILOrnamental shrubs not only offer color and texture in the landscape but when care is given to combining their attractive qualities with low maintenance traits, these beauties can be labeled as "Sensational Shrubbery"! Dwyer's expansive horticulture expertise will get you looking beyond the ever-present, mundane selection of shrubs. You will uncover treasures that will thrive in a wide range of conditions including sun, shade, tough soils and many other challenges. Specific cultural and maintenance information for these plants will be complimented by his exquisite examples of use in the landscape.

Dwarf Conifers and Unusual Conifers for the Midwest GardenPaul Pfeifer, Managing Director, MSU Hidden Lake Gardens, Tipton, MISeasonal plants offering a wide range of both flower and foliage coloration make them indispensable in our gardens. With such a wide range of selections available, it's tough to keep up with some of the newer plants that have proven performance combined with extended impact. Dwyer's exploration of some of the most stunning introductions and combos for all garden situations will definitely influence your plant-purchasing decisions!

Creating Color Spots in the LandscapeSteve Foltz, Director of Horticulture, Cincinnati Zoo and Botanical Gardens, Cincinnati, OHRenowned plant breeders and developers search all corners of the world for exponentially better perennials that fill the diverse niches of our Michigan landscapes. Barb Balgoyen of Walter's Gardens has been helping gardeners select the best plants for 30 years to fill our gardens with exceptional plants that are reliable and beautiful.

Gotta' Haves for the GardenSteve Foltz, Director of Horticulture, Cincinnati Zoo and Botanical Gardnes, Cincinnati, OHRenowned plant breeders and developers search all corners of the world for exponentially better perennials that fill the diverse niches of our Michigan landscapes. Barb Balgoyen of Walter's Gardens has been helping gardeners select the best plants for 30 years to fill our gardens with exceptional plants that are reliable and beautiful.

Cost: $80 per participant(Includes lunch, refreshments, handouts)

Extension Master Gardeners: This program qualifies for 6 education credits.Certified Green Industry Professionals: This program qualifies for 6 credits.

Cancellation Policy: No refunds within 7 days of the event otherwise a 90 percent refund applies. Substitutions are allowed and encouraged. This event will not be cancelled due to inclement weather unless the facility closes.

Special Needs: Please contact ANR Events at events@anr.msu.edu or 517-353-3175 at least 2 weeks prior to the event if you have special needs.

Michigan Master Gardener Association, Inc.

Formed in early 2012, the Michigan Master Gardener Association is dedicated to supporting the volunteer and social efforts that have been part of the Michigan Master Gardener Program since its inception. We also offer an array of benefits to master gardener volunteers.

DO YOU HAVE A GARDENING EVENT YOU'D LIKE ADDED TO THE MMGA CALENDAR?

Just fill out an events form. Be sure to put the word EVENTS in the subject line. The best way to reach us is by using our online events form. Click here to go directly to that page. Once you've filled out the online form it goes directly to our events email. If you choose you can download form by clicking on this link. With this method you'll need to print and fill out the form, scan it and then email it back to us.

does your master gardener group have a special project that you'd like to share? does your group have someone that goes above and beyond?

We'd like to hear about it. Please fill out our Spotlight Form and tell us what's going on in YOUR county. We'll follow up with you for more information and photos, and then we'll get the word out to our members. This is a great way to share your success, and an easy way to share great ideas with other Master Gardener groups.